20/10/2009 - Continued improvements in pupil numbers in Cumbrian schools

The number of pupil absences in local authority maintained secondary schools in Cumbria continues to drop dramatically.

Figures released today (Tues) by the Department for Children, Schools and Families show persistent absentees reduced from 6.2 per cent to 5.2 per cent (1,390 pupils) for the school year 2008/09. 

The national average is 5.6 per cent.

Authorised absence, such as agreed family holidays or illness, was down from 6.09 per cent to to 5.87.

Unauthorised and overall absence also showed a drop.

Secondary school absence rates 2008/09

Authorised 5.87% (6.09% 2007/08)

Unauthorised 0.83% (0.97% 2007/08) 

Overall 6.70% (7.05% 2007/08)

Persistent 5.2% (6.2% 2007/08)

The 2008/09 figures are based on 26,880 Cumbrian secondary school pupils.

Primary schools in Cumbria improved attendance for the sixth consecutive year.

Persistent absentees dropped to 1.3 per cent (410 pupils.) The national average is 2.2 per cent.

Primary school absence rates 2008/09

Authorised 4.61% (4.67% 2007/08)

Unauthorised 0.17% (0.15% 2007/08) 

Overall 4.78% (4.82% 2007/08)

Persistent 1.3% (1.5% 2007/08)

The 2008/09 figures are based on 30,670 Cumbrian primary school pupils.

Kevin Jones, Head of Service, Prevention and Partnership, children's services, Cumbria County Council, said:

"These are extremely encouraging figures with downward trends in almost all areas. However we are not complacent and will continue to work with our partners to provide action plans for those young people not accessing their education. "

ENDS

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